Should I Take My Earrings Out When I Shower?

For anyone who wears earrings daily, the question eventually comes up: Should I take my earrings out when I shower? Whether you're rushing out in the morning or winding down at night, it might feel easier to leave them in. But convenience isn't always the best choice—especially when it comes to your skin, your jewellery, and your overall hygiene.

This guide answers your most pressing concerns about showering with earrings, the risks involved, and how to protect your favourite pieces for years to come.

When Should You Take Your Earrings Out?

The safest and most universally recommended time to remove your earrings is before showering. Here's why:

• Soap and shampoo build-up can dull the shine of metals and gemstones.

• Moisture can seep into small crevices, causing discolouration or weakening adhesives.

• Tugging on towels and hair can increase the risk of snags or breakage.

Unless your earrings are healing studs in newly pierced ears, it's best to take them out before stepping into the shower.

What Type of Earrings Can You Wear in the Shower?

While it's generally recommended to remove all earrings, there are a few exceptions if you're absolutely set on keeping them in.

Water-Friendly Earring Materials

If you're going to wear earrings in the shower, choose:

• Solid Gold (14k or higher) – Resistant to tarnish, though not immune to dulling over time.

• Platinum – Highly durable and unlikely to react to water.

• Surgical Stainless Steel – Often used for body jewellery, less likely to corrode.

• Titanium – Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and water-resistant.

Avoid plated jewellery, costume earrings, or pieces with glued stones. These are the most vulnerable to water damage and disintegration.

Should You Wear Earrings in the Shower?

The short answer: No, unless you absolutely must (e.g. during the healing phase of a new piercing). Showering with earrings can introduce unnecessary risks:

What Can Go Wrong?

• Corrosion: Water, especially hot or chemically treated water, can cause metal to tarnish.

• Gemstone loosening: Water exposure can weaken the adhesive or prongs holding stones in place.

• Skin irritation: Soap residue trapped between your earlobe and earring can lead to itching or infection.

• Reduced lifespan: Repeated exposure to moisture and products degrades jewellery faster.

Even if the material is technically water-safe, build-up over time will dull its finish and compromise its quality.

How to Not Damage Your Earrings in the Shower

If you forget to remove your earrings once in a while, don’t panic. Damage is cumulative, not immediate. Here’s how to minimise risk:

Post-Shower Care

• Dry immediately with a soft cloth.

• Clean the earring and earlobe with saline or a gentle antiseptic solution.

• Avoid letting hair products or soap dry on or near your jewellery.

• Rotate earrings regularly to avoid consistent exposure on the same piece.

Being mindful even after the fact can significantly reduce the effects of accidental exposure.

Conclusion

So, should you take your earrings out when you shower? Absolutely. Unless your earrings are healing studs or made from highly resistant materials, the safest practice is to remove them beforehand. Not only does this prevent damage, but it also preserves the integrity of your jewellery and the health of your skin.

Taking this small step adds years to the life of your earrings—and keeps your style consistently sharp and clean.

FAQs

Can I shower with gold earrings?
Yes, solid gold earrings (14k or higher) can handle occasional water exposure. However, frequent contact may still dull their finish over time.

Is it okay to wear earrings in the rain or pool?
No. Chlorine and saltwater are harsher than plain water and can corrode metals or damage stones. Always remove earrings before swimming.

What happens if I forget to remove my earrings in the shower?
One or two times isn’t catastrophic, but consistent exposure can lead to tarnishing, dullness, and potential infections.

Do I have to remove earrings if they’re screw-back or hard to take out?
If removal is difficult, clean them thoroughly after each shower and ensure they’re made from water-safe materials.

Should I wear earrings in the shower if my ears are newly pierced?
Yes, but only if you're in the healing stage. In this case, gently pat dry after showering and avoid letting shampoo or soap sit on the piercing.